On April 23, 2009, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) published draft stem cell guidelines for public comment in the Federal Register. The purpose of these guidelines are to implement President Barack Obama’s Executive Order 13505 “Removing Barriers to Responsible Scientific Research Involving Human Stem Cells,” which was issued on March 9, 2009.

NIH received 49,015 comments by May 26, 2009, the closing date of the comment period, and have compiled these comments on this website. Any comments received via email or mail after the May 26 deadline are not included on this website. In reviewing the comments, NIH determined that 60 comments were inappropriate (i.e., contained SPAM responses or offensive language), and these comments have been excluded from this website. In addition, to protect the identities and personal information of individuals who submitted comments, NIH has removed personally identifiable information from the comments on this website even though individuals consented that the information provided could be made available for public review and posting.

I do not want my tax dollars to be used to fund embryonic stem cell research. I am a person who was diagnosed with MS at age 40. I am very thankful that I no longer have symptons but even if I did I would not sacrifice the unborn human beings to do research. There has been much success with adult stem cells and that is where I would support the research.

5996

05/02/2009 at 06:52:30 AM

Self

Please do not use human embryos to use for research. Please do not kill these little humans. These little embryos are discriminated against. They are not the "chosen" ones. Allow them the chance to be adopted out and not killed.

5997

05/02/2009 at 06:52:48 AM

Self

I am against the harvesting of embryonic stem cells for research purposes, because every one involves death. One steps beyond the bounds / limits set by GOD upon human beings in his Creation (see Genesis 1 - 2 in the Holy Bible).

I am against the use of public funding (my tax dollars) to support a procedure that I find morally abhorrent and cannot support as a disciple of My Lord Jesus Christ, who said "Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs" (Mark 10: 14b, NRSV).

5998

05/02/2009 at 06:57:16 AM

Self

Please continue support of stem cell research- my spouse has Parkinsons and a recent PBs show showed promise using these cells to stem the attack.

5999

05/02/2009 at 06:57:44 AM

Self

On March 9, 2009 President Barack Obama issued an executive order that overturned President Bush's policy and opened the way for funding more embryonic stem cell research (ESCR) that creates an incentive to create and destroy human embryos. President Obama designated the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to draft guidelines for distributing funds for this research. Last week, April 23, NIH officially posted draft guidelines to open federal funding for research on human embryonic stem cells. What these guidelines do is send your tax dollars to experiment on stem cells taken from human embryos that supposedly are "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these human embryos, these draft guidelines would require their death. This killing must stop. In court rooms all around the world, DNA is use to identify individuals. At conception these individuals have their own unique DNA. That DNA identifies them not only as individuals but also part of the Homo-sapiens species. As identified in Roe vs. Wade, we now can see this new life is human and is protected under our laws. Now is the time to 'line up' our judicial and executive government with our laws. Please do your part, be responsible. Respect all human life. Sincerely, ***** Ref: The order, signed at the White House with several NIH officials on hand, allows NIH to “support and conduct responsible, scientifically worthy human stem cell research, including human embryonic stem cell research, to the extent permitted by law.”

I am 100% against my money being used for human embryonic stem cell research. I suppport adult stem cell research.

6001

05/02/2009 at 07:02:41 AM

Self

This is just one more step in long line of advancing the destruction of life along with abortion and self admin. suicide laws in some states. Nothing about life seems to be sacred anymore.

6002

05/02/2009 at 07:04:56 AM

Self

I am adamantly opposed to the guidelines that my tax dollars may be used for to experiment on stem cells taken from human embryos that supposedly are "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these human embryos, these draft guidelines would require their death.

My Dad lived with Parkinson's for 30 years and passed away 2 years ago. Although there was much talk abou the human stem cell study for Parkinson's research, he was totally opposed to the use of human fetuses for research.

I am opposed to federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cells, please rethink these guidelines!

6003

05/02/2009 at 07:05:14 AM

Self

Please refer to the code stated in the document regarding the research of human embryonic stem cell guidelines. It is only fitting and right to observe the barriers established in your document prior to August 9, 2001. The unnecessary use of embryonic stem cells should be discouraged from any improper usage.

6004

05/02/2009 at 07:05:22 AM

Self

PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW PUBLIC FUNDING FOR EMBRYONIC STEM CELL RESEARCH! ADULT STEM CELL RESEARCH AND USE HAVE PROVEN TO BE VERY BENEFICIAL. USING EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS IS IMMORAL.

6005

05/02/2009 at 07:07:52 AM

Self

Please do not use my tax money to kill more innocent human beings! Do not use any Federal tax dollars to fund embryonic stem cell research. Help America financially, healthwise, and morally by funding only adult stem cell research and other non-killing methods that have already been proven to work and to help people.

6006

05/02/2009 at 07:15:01 AM

Self

We do not want our tax dollars to pay for research on stem cells derived from embryos who are supposedly "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. We promote the adoption of these tiny humans.

We oppose the use of our taxpayer dollars for experiments that rely on killing embryonic human beings.

6007

05/02/2009 at 07:19:03 AM

Self

I oppose the use of human embryonic stem cells in research. Embryos are the beginning of human life which is sacred and without doubt valuable. We must respect human life in all stages of growth and development from conception throughout adulthood.

6008

05/02/2009 at 07:20:46 AM

Self

I would beg you NOT to open the blockade that President Bush established on stem cells. We were formed as a nation with Christian values. Killing babies does not is not a proud behavior for us to try to justify. Adult stem cells have proven to be VERY effective, plus there are 22 lines already for research. There will be horrible consequences for us as a nation. PLEASE don't go there!!!!

6009

05/02/2009 at 07:20:50 AM

Self

For many Americans with a personal connection to type 1 diabetes, the Administration’s expansion of the federal policy on embryonic stem cell research has renewed our hope for a cure. I am writing today to support the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) draft guidelines and suggest a change to ensure promising, ethically conducted research currently underway will be eligible for federal funding in the future.

The Administration’s Executive Order on stem cell research restored scientific decision-making to its rightful place at the NIH. In these guidelines, the NIH has demonstrated its capacity to formulate a research framework that will unleash the potential of embryonic stem cell research while maintaining the highest safety and ethical standards. I would encourage the NIH, however, to grandfather into this policy stem cell lines that have received federal funding, as well as existing lines that were derived in an ethically-responsible manner according to the best practices at the time. Research on these stem cell lines should be eligible for federal funding so that scientists can maximize the scientific advancements already achieved through research on these lines.

Research should be vigorously pursued on all promising stem cell sources that could potentially lead to a cure for type 1 diabetes. While embryonic stem cell research is still in its early stages, this research has already yielded impressive results in our continuing effort to find a cure for type 1 diabetes. Recent research suggests that embryonic stem cells can be differentiated to produce the insulin-producing beta cells that could reverse the course of type 1 diabetes.

We do not yet know which stem cell sources may ultimately lead to a cure or be the most clinically useful or practical for patients with type 1 diabetes. It is clear, however, that the more knowledge we gain about embryonic stem cells, the better we can assess the full therapeutic potential of all stem cell sources. These draft guidelines allowing federal funding for embryonic stem cell research using excess embryos from fertility clinics will ensure that this research matures and its potential is more fully realized. I commend the NIH for allowing this important research to expand in a scientifically and ethically appropriate manner.

Please let us know if you have any questions. You can send us an email at advocacy@jdrf.org.

Thank you!

JDRF Government Relations

Additional Background: Last month President Obama signed an Executive Order, which lifted previous federal funding restrictions on stem cell research. Although this action was a great victory for those of us in search of a cure for type 1 diabetes, our job is not done!

As part of the Executive Order, President Obama instructed the NIH to issue guidelines governing this research. You can view the NIH’s draft guidelines online by clicking here. The draft guidelines would permit federal funding for research using stem cells derived from embryos created by in-vitro fertilization and no longer needed for reproductive purposes. The draft guidelines also would ensure that embryos utilized for embryonic stem cell research were donated under the highest ethical standards. While JDRF supports these guidelines, we would encourage the NIH to extend funding eligibility to currently-funded stem cell lines and existing lines that were derived according to prevailing ethical guidelines.

6010

05/02/2009 at 07:26:00 AM

Self

As a nurse I oppose embryonic stem cell research, because I became a nurse to save lives, not take them. I believe that these stem cells will come from aborted fetuses and that is murder. To kill a baby is against everything I stand for as a nurse and a human being. Life is precious from the beginning it is created. Respect that and stop this insanity.

6011

05/02/2009 at 07:28:46 AM

Self

I oppose federal funding of this type of research. It is not only unethical but unconstitutional. This is not an area of responsibility of the federal government.

6012

05/02/2009 at 07:30:36 AM

Self

I am against stem cell research. A lot of unborn babies are killed for this research. You will have he blood of those babies on your hands when you stand before God. How can you say your a Christian and then support the research that kills unborn babies? Murder is against God. read your Bible

6013

05/02/2009 at 07:31:11 AM

Self

Regarding Federal Register: April 23, 2009 (Volume 74, Number 77), it has been scientifically demonstrated that adult stem cells are equally, if not more effective than human embryos. Furthermore, the use of adult stem cell research is achieved without the need to consider the moral issues of life and conscience.

The scientific road to remedy can be safely navigated without injuring life, health and either removing or redefining religious doctrine - pro or con. For either belief is a doctrine of what either camp accepts as valid, right and worthy of acceptance.

I stand in strong and complete opposition to any past, present or future funding of embryonic stem cell research. And that stance does in no way hinder, short-circuit or interfere with the scientific ability to explore and devise remedies for the purposes speculated to achieve with the above named intrusive method.

Think of your reasons for focusing on embryonic stem cells instead of adult, umbilical cord, and other methods. Is it because you must justify your purposes for holding on to abortion? Please give this some thought, reflection and prayer.

6016

05/02/2009 at 07:32:43 AM

Self

I am completely opposed to the process of destroying human embryos ("children-to-be") in the pursuit of some random scientific research. When sdult stem cells have shown their usefulness repeatedly in combatting disease - WITHOUT the loss of human life - I see no value in continuing to pursue experiments which require the destruction of these embryos. I am further opposed to the use of my tax dollars to underwrite embryonic stem cell research. That process makes me complicit in the taking of innocent human life and offends my God. If others wish to sacrifice children to their "Baal," I will continue to oppose it; to, by force of government, require that I participate in this monstrous activity is, simply, evil.

6017

05/02/2009 at 07:33:41 AM

Self

It was my hope that WWII German experimentation on human beings caused sufficient revulsion that it would not be tolerated my "civilized" countries and yet here we are in 2009 in the United States of America not only allowing such experimentation but forcing those who have strong objection to such activity to support it with their tax dollars. It is to our shame.

6018

05/02/2009 at 07:36:00 AM

Self

When frozen embryonic cells are used for research or even destroyed in the process, one does not know what their full potential could have been had it been adopted out. That embryo has the potential to become the next president, head of NIH or help us find the answer to many of life's dilemmas. No science can recreate a soul or spirit, and that is the part that no one seems to address either. We are in to deep with this type of experiment and will no doubt regret it one day. Taxpayers shouldn't have to foot the bill.

6019

05/02/2009 at 07:36:07 AM

Self

I would like to comment on embryonic stem cell research debate. It Is my understanding that most of the progress in this field is in adult stem cell research and that very little advancement has been made in embryonic research. Also I believe that the embryos’ are human beings and should not be the subject of experimentation. If that is true, then we do not have the right to take that life and I do not want my tax dollars used for the killing of human beings. If I were to kill a bald eagle, I would be put in prison. Yet we can kill babies and it is called research or a woman’s right to choose.

6020

05/02/2009 at 07:38:29 AM

Self

Why aren't we using stem cells from the umbilical cords of BORN babies instead of killing unborn babies. For those of us who cannot afford to bank the babies cord blood, why don't you ask permission to use the stem cells in the umbilical cord making the possibility for more people to get help possible should stem cells be the answer. There are babies born everyday & this would provide enough stem cells for research.

6021

05/02/2009 at 07:42:22 AM

Self

President Obama, Opening the way to embryonic stem cell research is just one more step down the slippery slope of devaluing life. God says He knows us even in our Mother's womb...and we are all precious to Him. As a professing Christian, should you devalue what our Creator deems as most valuable? I have no power over your decisions, Mr. President, but whether you wish to realize it or not, God is in control and if you truly seek Him and His will in your decisions, you will withdraw your support of this action. Choose to please the Lord, not man, and you will be a man of greatness and blessed by the Lord.

Thank you.

6022

05/02/2009 at 07:43:16 AM

Self

I am totally against stem cell, one step will lead to another, Gods word says, do NOT call anything good evil and anything evil good and that exactly what you all are trying to do. One Day you will have to give account to your creator.

6023

05/02/2009 at 07:45:33 AM

Self

PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW ANY FURHTER RESEARCH ON HUMAN EMBRYOS. THESE ARE INDEED HUMAN BEINGS AND THEREFORE SHOULD NOT BE KILLED FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES. THEY SHOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION. I PERSONALLY KNOW PEOPLE WHO ARE HAVING PROBLEMS TRYING TO ADOPT CHILDREN AND WOULD LOVE TO ADOPT ON OF THESE EMBRYOS. ALSO, THERE IS MEDICAL EVIDENCE THAT ADULT STEM CELLS AND CORD BLOOD STEM CELLS CAN BE USED WITHOUT HAVING TO KILL THESE EMBRYOS. PLEASE DO THE RIGHT THING.

6024

05/02/2009 at 07:47:48 AM

Self

Last month, when Barack Obama overturned the federal funding ban on embryonic stem cell (ESC) research, he left the parameters of that decision up to your agency, the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The officially posted draft guidelines on ESC by your agency opens the floodgates for the destruction of embryos at taxpayers' expense. Under these rules, my tax dollars would pay for research on stem cells derived from embryos who are supposedly "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these tiny humans, the NIH guidelines would sentence them to death. I am submitting this comment to express my concerns about these regulations. My pro-life values have been and continue to be steamrolled by this administration. I STRONGLY oppose the use of my taxpayer dollars for experiments that rely on killing embryonic human beings. I request that the NIH re-write these guidelines to protect these people in the form of embryos and alternatively, promote the adoption of them.

6025

05/02/2009 at 07:48:25 AM

Self

Please STOP this massacre to this Human Babies in their Limbo State! Stop all this blood shed!

6026

05/02/2009 at 07:48:51 AM

Self

An organization that neglects its responsibility to value human life will not prosper. Those who wish to destroy human embryos in the name of science and research do so not because there is support from development of useful treatments, but from the standpoint of desiring to remove all moral and ethical limits from a research area in which fame and financial gain is sought. If benefit of U.S. taxpayers or of humankind as a whole were the goal, the funding and emphasis on research would be in the fledgling but widely proven and successful area of adult stem cell research. Whether one weighs a decision on destruction of human embryos to acquire stem cells for research from a moral standpoint, or from an ethical standpoint, it is immoral and unethical.

6027

05/02/2009 at 07:50:34 AM

Self

Last month, when Barack Obama overturned the federal funding ban on embryonic stem cell (ESC) research, he left the parameters of that decision up to your agency, the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The officially posted draft guidelines on ESC by your agency opens the floodgates for the destruction of embryos at taxpayers' expense. Under these rules, my tax dollars would pay for research on stem cells derived from embryos who are supposedly "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these tiny humans, the NIH guidelines would sentence them to death. I am submitting this comment to express my concerns about these regulations. My pro-life values have been and continue to be steamrolled by this administration. I STRONGLY oppose the use of my taxpayer dollars for experiments that rely on killing embryonic human beings. I request that the NIH re-write these guidelines to protect these people in the form of embryos and alternatively, promote the adoption of them.

6028

05/02/2009 at 07:50:46 AM

Self

There are many viable options to embryonic stem cell research. There is no reason to harvest innocent lives for research. The government is turning a blind eye to the most vulnerbale persons- unborn children. This practice has led to groups like Planned Parenthood reaping financial rewards. Tax-payer money should not be used for such purposes. Please put value into life. Research to find cures and treatments for disease does not have to happen at the expense of lives that are unborn. You may be murdering the life of a future scientist that would have performed research to cure cancer, or diabetes, or parkinsons.

6029

05/02/2009 at 07:51:09 AM

Self

I am opposed to the use of embryonic stem cells for any type of research. I believe it to be morally reprehensible.

6030

05/02/2009 at 07:52:47 AM

Self

As a tax payer in the United States I oppose the use of federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cells.

Thank you.

6031

05/02/2009 at 07:55:29 AM

Self

We want to express our disagreement with ESCR. This procedure kills innocent children who could be put up for adoption. This is especially not necessary when so much more success has been seen with adult stem cells. Thank you.

6032

05/02/2009 at 07:56:04 AM

Self

As a taxpayer in the United States I oppose the use of federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cells.

Thank you.

6033

05/02/2009 at 07:56:46 AM

Self

I am sure we would find it reprehensible to take a 2 year old and perform scientific experiments on him or her in order to find a cure for some debilitating disease. An embryo is just a younger and more innocent 2 year old. Why is this practice any less reprehensible? Let's keep up the good work with adult stem cell research which is proving effective and refrain from reprehensible practices which have not proven effective. Maybe the ineffectiveness of ESC research is an indicator to stop the practice and focus on research which has proven effective.

6034

05/02/2009 at 07:58:24 AM

Organization

Students for Life

Lake Charles, LA

Please do not use these funds to support embryonic stem cell research. It is the destruction of human life, and each of those lives that you will be destroying is precious and deserving of human dignity and respect. Funding embryonic stem cell research is just one step further in the destruction of our country. Thank you for reconsidering!

6035

05/02/2009 at 07:59:21 AM

Self

I greatly oppose the use of federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cells. This is an obomination to our God, our Creator!

6036

05/02/2009 at 07:59:22 AM

Self

I am utterly opposed (and horrified) by the prospect of (again) using federal funds for research utilizing human embyonic stem cells. I pray that our leaders will see the benefit of using other, better methods to obtain the same goals.

6037

05/02/2009 at 07:59:24 AM

Self

As a tax payer in the United States I oppose the use of federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cells.

Thank you.

6038

05/02/2009 at 08:01:28 AM

Self

Please cease from continuing your research on embryonic stem cells, since this is an affront and outrage to civilizaton and God. There has been success with human adult stem cells, I encourage you to pursue this path. I pray that you will consider this alternative to killing unborn embryo's

6039

05/02/2009 at 08:01:32 AM

Self

I would like to comment on the third purpose of the draft guidelines. That is stated "to help ensure that NIH-funded research in this area is ethically responsible." It is NOT ethically responsible to destroy human life. Even though it is stated "stem cells are not themselves human embryos," the embryos are still human life and are destroyed in the process. If not destroyed or otherwise inhibited, an embryo will grow to be a baby and grow to be an adult. There is no point along this continuum that one can decide that the "human" is not a human. The same genetic information is present at every stage of human life from embryo to adult. So in the same way that one would not destroy the life of an adult to conduct research, one should not destroy the life of an embryo to do research.

6040

05/02/2009 at 08:02:01 AM

Self

Embryonic stem cell research has yielded little success in the treatment of disease and it is morally reprehensible to sacrifice life for the sake of research. At the same time, adult stem cell research has been very productive and should be promoted. It is not possible for us to decide the relative value of individual lives, so how can we sacrifice the life of an embryo for the purpose of research, especially unfruitful research. Embryonic stem cell research has had time and funding but has not yielded medical treatments. Therefore, it should be stopped, or at least let it fund itself by the value of its output.

6041

05/02/2009 at 08:02:11 AM

Self

This should not be done at all. We were all once at that stage of life.We do not have the right to decide who lives and dies.

6042

05/02/2009 at 08:02:43 AM

Self

I find it appalling that our Government would allow the destruction of human life instead of adoption. According to The Holy Bible, which is GOD'S WORD, this is murder. It is a shame that the Government of this Great Nation has become so anti-Christian. This country will reap the wrath of God Almighty unless there is a complete turn around from the current direction of anti-Christian politicians,citizens, and yes also so-called christians who are to weak to take a stand for Jesus Christ!

In Christ Holy Name,

6043

05/02/2009 at 08:04:32 AM

Self

we need to respent god's work.

6044

05/02/2009 at 08:05:11 AM

Self

This is not a formal - scientific comment. I only want to say - this is wrong. Embryos collected from couples wanting in vitro fertilization or other methods of collecting embryos - and then using these embryos - these babies - for science?? There are more laws protecting dogs and cats and monkeys than people!!!!! This is Murder in the first degree. Please do not take our country in this direction.

6045

05/02/2009 at 08:05:17 AM

Self

It is my understanding that much greater advancements, if all of a true nature, have been derived from using people's own stem cells, as these cannot be rejected by the body. Naturally, I am in favor of ameliorating people's ailments, but not at the cost of needlessly destroying human lives. President Bush's act allowed embryonic cells to be used but did not encourage destroying human lives.

President Obama seems to be a proponent of abortion, in this form and among women. However he does not understand that it is not the easy fix that many women feel it is at the time. Many suffer regret and guilt later, often after they have the precious gift of a child in their own lives. More should be done to show the abortion minded what they are giving up through ultrasound and information. There are other options, such as open or closed adoption. Many agencies will find a loving home for the expectant woman or girl if she chooses to keep the matter to herself.

6046

05/02/2009 at 08:05:35 AM

Self

Please do not allow this bill to pass..I tis a terrible thing to do and esp with goverment funds...

6047

05/02/2009 at 08:05:59 AM

Self

NO NO NO they are babies NOT embryos

6048

05/02/2009 at 08:08:40 AM

Self

Please do not continue with stem cell research that involves the destruction of human embryos. From the moment of conception, this is a human life -- it can progress into nothing else than the birth of a human being. Embryonic stem cell research has produced nothing of value in the treatment of any disease. Adult stem cell research, on the other hand, has been tremendously successful in treating, to date, 70-80 diseases. Since adult stem cells can be obtained from a multitude of sources, it simply makes sense -- it's scientifically logical -- to use #1 -- what works, and #2 -- what does not destroy human life in the process. It is pure arrogance to decree that the child/adult who would result from that destroyed embryo is of no value and therefore it's all right to kill it. God alone has placed potential and value into that person. He weeps when we place so little value on His creation.

6049

05/02/2009 at 08:09:33 AM

Self

To date, embryonic stem cells have not been successful in curing any human malady. The only success with stem cells has been with adult stem cells, so why are we spending money on a technology that is fruitless. But, the underlying fact is that when we use embryonic stem cells we have to "kill a living fetus" to obtain the stem cells. Surely, those who commit these murders will be punished for the error of their ways. When will we stop spending money on the "abortion agenda" and begin to act like moral individuals in this country.

6050

05/02/2009 at 08:10:49 AM

Self

I do not want my tax dollars to be spent on the destruction of human life, even with all the guidelines spelled out in your proposal. The cures from using adult stem cells are so many and so effective that there is no need for embryonic stem cell research, which so far has shown no promise of effectiveness in curing any disease. I'm asking you to turn down the federal funds for research in embryonic stem cell research and increase the adult stem cell research.

6051

05/02/2009 at 08:11:23 AM

Self

I oppose the use of embrionic stem cells for research and do not want my tax dollars used for this purpose.

6052

05/02/2009 at 08:11:47 AM

Self

If we choose to dehumanize life (much like Hitler adopted), what next next will we devolve to............oblivion?

6053

05/02/2009 at 08:12:25 AM

Since it has been proven many times that adult stem cell research has been successful, I cannot understand why embryonic stem cell research has continued. Having read and been educated about these matters by respected commentators, it appears there is more behind the on going embryonic research than is brought to light. By this, I mean "Big Money", instead of listening to what the majority of America wants. Politics is the reason behind the ongoing destruction of tiny human lives than any so called cures it might produce. It is about time that the American public's tax dollars stop paying for the destruction of human life, not only in this way, but also in the abortion industry. It is murder any way you look at it, and is wrong in the eyes of God. America will pay for this awful thing that is being done daily to the innocent. Please stop this unspeakable industry and those behind it from becoming wealthier by MURDERING babies. Life begins at conception.

6054

05/02/2009 at 08:14:40 AM

Self

I don't understand why President Barak Obama would support ESR since, to my knowledge, no treatments have been developed from this area of research. This is despite several years of research on the part of so-called scientists.

I recall that the Nazis used the guise of "medical research" to support some of their atrocities. I profoundly hope that I never see the United States become a culture of death. I believe that a good end does not justify a questionable means. We have to draw moral lines at some point in order to retain our sense of decency. Please let this proposal be a line we do not cross.

6055

05/02/2009 at 08:15:24 AM

Self

I am writing to express my dismay at the potential policy changes regarding frozen embryos and stem cell research. Given the fact that NONE of the research on frozen embryos has produced viable results for stem cell therapy (unlike the ADULT stem cell research which was successful) I think it is misguided at best to use taxpayer funds to further this failure. In addition, there are many eager couples which would gladly use these embryos for in vitro fertilization, allowing them to be parents. Please reconsider this policy you are outlining, and stop taxpayer funded embryonic research.

6056

05/02/2009 at 08:15:33 AM

Self

I do not feel this is a proper use of taxpayers money as it is a controversial issue and ALL tax payers may not be in approval. Funds for this type of research should be made on an individual basis so a person knows where his/her money is going.

6057

05/02/2009 at 08:16:14 AM

Self

President Obama has once again bypassed Congress and issued another Executive order to trash the current restrictions on taxpayer funding of embryonic stem cell research. Because of the liberal. leftwing stranglehold the Democrats have in WA. along with their willing cohorts in "Big media" who have long been staunch supporters of totally failed embryonic stem cell use, we who value human life seem to have to stand helplessly by and watch "junk science" have its way in destroying the first stages of life in the name of embryonic stem cell research, which totally ignores countless qualified experts as they report a flood of articles about the progress with adult stem cells. For example, we have seen headlines such as, "Doctors transplant windpipe with woman'sown stem cells"; the use of a patient's own stem cells to treat heart failure"; and "Mother-of-two becomes first transplant patient to receive a whole organ transplant grown from her own stem cells." The amazing flexibility of adult stem cells has launched the scientific community into a new era of almost daily discoveries. Although ethical alternatives are light years ahead for the research that destroys innocent human life, the Obama administration insists on revisiting a failed and controversial technique -- embryonic stem cell (ESC) research. WHY? Is it because of his fierce "pro-death" agenda! OR because he wishes to emphasize his power to overturn everything that President Bush held to? While adult stem cells are already successfully treating patients, the over-hyped and underperforming totally failed ESC has the "Pro-Death community staunchly behind them. The outrageous agenda of forcing the Pro-life community to pay for this research is like a slap in the face to those of us who value human life. We face some serious challenges in the next four years!

6058

05/02/2009 at 08:18:02 AM

Self

Please do not destroy or fund embryonic stem cell experimentation!

6059

05/02/2009 at 08:19:23 AM

Organization

We are in opposititon to federally funding embryonic stem cell research in regards to embryos harvested after 2001. Please take into account our opposititon to President Obama's overturned ban on this procedure.

6060

05/02/2009 at 08:19:36 AM

Self

Please, no change to the prior rules. Killing of human embryos for their cells is wrong and should not be expanded.

6061

05/02/2009 at 08:21:58 AM

Self

I strongly oppose the use of tax-payer monies to fund embryonic stem cell research. There is no evidence of effective results from this method of research as opposed to other stem cell research. So why destroy viable human life when other methods are available?

6062

05/02/2009 at 08:22:38 AM

Self

I oppose President Obama's overturning of President Bush's policy on stem cell research, and I oppose tax payer funding more embryonic stem cell research (ESCR) on human embryonic stem cells.

6063

05/02/2009 at 08:23:03 AM

Self

I don't believe that the United States Government should be using U.S. taxpayer money to support embryonic stem cell (ESC) research. Adult stem cell research has proven promising and I think should be pursued but not embryonic stem cell research which has not shown any purposeful or beneficial results.

6064

05/02/2009 at 08:26:03 AM

Self

Embryonic stem cell research should not be expanded. The destruction of human embryos for research is morally unacceptable. Embryonic stem cells have also not provided any usable treatments and are unlikely to do so. Adult stem cells, on the other hand, have actually been used successfully in treatments. Please let's focus on what is working and what is morally acceptable.

6065

05/02/2009 at 08:26:18 AM

Self

I am against this study of stem cells- please fight for me!

6066

05/02/2009 at 08:26:39 AM

Self

I am against this study of stem cells- please fight for me!

6067

05/02/2009 at 08:27:07 AM

Self

I oppose, on moral grounds, the use of embryonic stem cells for research. There are plenty of other opttions for research that can achieve the same end without the wholesale promotion of abortion as a casual procedure. I believe that human life is sacred and therefore valuable. Taking human life - even in the form of embryos - for the sake of research is immoral. I do not want my tax dollars spent on this when there are many greater causes.

6068

05/02/2009 at 08:27:43 AM

Self

The previous administration already has lines open for research. Continue those lines and don't get into the murky area of embryos being used for research from the invitro industry.

As a country it is important to respect life in all stages.

Please pursue the lines that are open to research now - from the previous administrations guidelines - including adult stem cells - and refuse to delve into the area that could make it permissable to use embryos that were created for this purpose!

6069

05/02/2009 at 08:27:52 AM

Self

I do not want my tax dollars to be utilized for experiments on stem cells taken from human embryos that supposedly are "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these human embryos, these draft guidelines would require their death. I see no reason whatsoever that embryonic research should even be funded at all, considering it has produced no successful cures or medical advancement. Why are we not funding adult stem cell research instead, since it has produced a number of cures and advancements, and continues to be successful. It makes no logical or medical sense, even if the ethical issue is left out of the picture.

6070

05/02/2009 at 08:28:01 AM

Self

Embryonic stem cell research holds great promise for millions of Americans suffering from many diseases and disorders. I am not a scientist, but I am a member of the Parkinson’s community and have been following progress in this field with great interest. Significant strides have been made over the past decade, and the final guidelines issued by NIH must build on this progress so that cures and new therapies can get to patients as quickly as possible. The final guidelines should not create new bureaucratic hurdles that will slow the pace of progress.

I am pleased that these draft guidelines -- in Section II B -- would appear to permit federal funding of stem cell lines previously not eligible for federal funding and for new lines created in the future from surplus embryos at fertility clinics. However, as drafted, Section II B does not ensure that any current stem cell line will meet the criteria outlined and thus be eligible for federal funding. It will be important for the final guidelines to allow federal funds for research using all stem cell lines created by following ethical practices at the time they were derived. This will ensure that the final guidelines build on progress that has already been made.

I also believe that the final guidelines should permit federal funding for stem cell lines derived from sources other than excess IVF embryos, such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Sections II B and IV of the draft guidelines do not permit such federal funding and I recommend that the final guidelines provide federal funding using stem cell lines derived in other ways. If not, it is essential that the NIH continue to monitor developments in this exciting research area and to update these guidelines as the research progresses.

6071

05/02/2009 at 08:29:11 AM

Self

I would like to submit comments regarding the Draft NIH Human Stem Cell Guidelines. Your draft mentions it wants this research to be "ethically responsible, scientifically worthy." The embryos which will be used as sources for stem cells will never be implanted and allowed to develop into their potential-- a child. Can it ever be "ethically responsible" to deny their chance for life? Is it "ethically responsible" to have "created" more embryos during IVF than a couple plans to implant?

It is also my understanding that research with adult stem cells has yielded useable findings, and that embryonic cell research may not even have "scientifically worthy" outcomes. Why are we not pouring funds into research that is respectable and valid?

I oppose the use of embryonic stem cells for research. It is unnecessary, and represents yet another abuse to this nation's unborn children.

6072

05/02/2009 at 08:29:56 AM

Self

I am opposed federal funding for research on human embryonic stem cells. The draft guidelines you have posted use my tax dollars to experiment on stem cells taken from human embryos that supposedly are "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these human embryos, these draft guidelines would require their death. I am opposed to this practice and ask that you not use embryonic stem cells to conduct your research.

6073

05/02/2009 at 08:30:01 AM

Self

Federal funding for Human Stem Cell Research means my tax dollars would be funding the killing of innocent human life. This goes against my core beliefs. It is wrong! Do not allow the use of federal funds, my tax dollars, to promote the killing of innocent life. In addition, the use of embryonic stem cells has not shown to be of use. Other cells, adult cells, even fat cells, have proved to be much more valuable to utilize in finding cures.

6074

05/02/2009 at 08:31:21 AM

Self

Embryonic stem cell research is a complete waste of time taxpayer money. ALL time and money should be devoted solely to research involving adult stem cells and IPS cells, which offer FAR more promise than embryonic stem cells. Over 70 treatments have been developed from the use of adult stem cells. NO treatments have been developed from the use of embryonic stem cells. Furthermore, there have been recent efforts to develop a new approach to creating IPS cells that does not involve viruses, therefore eliminating the possibility of causing cancer. If I were a patient waiting for treatment to a disease, I know that I would want to have my own cells for the treatment, rather than foreign cells from embryos. Why is the government so obsessed with cannibalizing the human species, when other alternatives, which are FAR more promising, are available? Embryonic stem cell research is a COMPLETE waste of valuable time and money!

6075

05/02/2009 at 08:31:48 AM

Self

I am sadened by President Obama's issue of the executive order that overturned the ban on creating human embryos for stem cell research. I don't want to see our tax dollars used to promote this practice, which is morally wrong. I continue to pray for our national leaders to wake up and follow God's laws and obtain wisdom.

Please restore the ban on further killing of human embryos for their cells.

Thank you,

6076

05/02/2009 at 08:32:04 AM

Self

I oppose human stem cell research.

6077

05/02/2009 at 08:32:30 AM

Self

Surplus Embryonic stem cells hold the cures for many medical issues with Parkinson's right at the top. Please do not tie the hands of legitimate scientists too tite by enacting layers of bureaucratic jargon especially in on going testing.

Thank you.

6078

05/02/2009 at 08:32:49 AM

Self

I completely disagree with the decision of the current administration to change the policies concerning embryonic stem cell research. I do not want to see any more embryos destroyed for research when it has been proven that adult stem cell research is much more productive and doesn't have any moral implications. Please do not begin to allow the destruction of embryos again for research purposes. It is destroying an innocent life and I am opposed to it. I would much rather see these embryos made available for adoption by someone who wants to have children and cannot.

6079

05/02/2009 at 08:33:13 AM

Self

I do not want my tax dollars used for unethical embryonic stem cell research. Adult stem cells are the answer.

6080

05/02/2009 at 08:33:58 AM

Self

We oppose all embryonic stem cell research. WE support all adult stem cell research.

6081

05/02/2009 at 08:34:09 AM

Self

I disagree with the draft guidelines to open federal funding for research on human embryonic stem cells. I am opposed to sending my tax dollars to experiment on stem cells taken from human embryos that supposedly are "leftover" from in vitro fertilization. Instead of promoting the adoption of these human embryos, these draft guidelines would require their death.

6082

05/02/2009 at 08:34:41 AM

Self

I am opposed to the exploitation and destruction of human life in the form of embroyonic stem cells. Adult stem cell research has shown much greater promise and even results. Why are people in administrative and research positions under the guise of authority so enamored with going down this rabbit trail when the overwhelming majority of the American people is opposed to the destruction of embroyonic stem cells (i.e. the beginning of human life)?

6083

05/02/2009 at 08:36:05 AM

Self

This research will be futile. Do you think our loving God will allow any success in this research when it involves the killing of His most precious gift? The success of using adult stem cells has been proven over and over again. And it does not involve the killing of innocent lives. Why not concentrate on using what is proven to be effective instead of the mass murder of innocent lives? Please do not use embryos for research.

6084

05/02/2009 at 08:36:54 AM

Self

I would hope we would respect life in any form. Besides a live baby, these embryo's are the next closet to life. We are making great strides with cord blood cells and adult cells. I feel we need to stop researching on embryo cells.

6085

05/02/2009 at 08:38:05 AM

Self

Embryonic stem cell research is an expensive approach to arriving at the same point we are now with non embryo research. Meanwhile we short change continuing productive and successful research with the latter. Put the money into what has been and is productive and let's really move science, not ideology, forward.

6086

05/02/2009 at 08:38:29 AM

Self

I strongly oppose the use of taxpayers dollars for the use of killing embryonic human beings.

6087

05/02/2009 at 08:38:43 AM

Self

I oppose the use of our taxpayer dollars for experiments that rely on killing embryonic human beings. Only God gives life, and only He can and should take life.

6088

05/02/2009 at 08:38:45 AM

Self

Please consider spending the research dollars planned for embryonic stem cell research be transferred to adult cell or cord research. These areas have proven beneficial to date. You are thus eliminating any controversy and may find cures for diseases much faster.

The fact that science can do something doesn't mean it is morally correct.

6089

05/02/2009 at 08:39:48 AM

Self

As stated in most important potential use of human embryonic stem cells is the generation of cells and tissues that could be used for cell-based therapies. I believe that although there are important "potential" uses, use of human embryonic stem cells is morally wrong. Public finding should NOT be used for this research. Rather, research in non-embryonic human adult stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells should continue to be pursued.

6090

05/02/2009 at 08:45:38 AM

Self

I oppose all use of medical experimentation on human beings. If it was wrong and barbaric in Nazi Germany it is still wrong and barbaric today. The argument that the human is much, much, much, much younger does not hold water ethically. Age or size does not alter what is fundamentally human. A human being, (however small), is killed so we can experiment on her.

Moreover, adult stem cell research has garnered far more results and assistance to the medical community, and does not mean death to a microscopic human being. Embryonic stem cell research is Frankensteinian, and SHOULD be beneath us as a civilized society.

6091

05/02/2009 at 08:46:12 AM

Self

I am upset about the change in policy in the use of embryonic stem cell research. Life should not be destroyed. I have a friend how is in Korea (I think this is the correct country) receiving stem cell treatment, but they are using his own stem cells. The wife told me embryonic stem cells have been shown to cause cancer. The doctor doing the treatment is named Dr. *****. I feel we should protect life and seek to use our own stem cells to promote healing/recovery techniques.

6092

05/02/2009 at 08:47:16 AM

Self

We OPPOSE the use of our taxpayer dollars for experiments that rely on killing embryonic human beings!

6093

05/02/2009 at 08:47:20 AM

Self

Based on research that I have read and heard, research using adult stem cells has been successful.Funding should continue to be allowed for human stem cell research using adult stem cells and induced pluripotent. I believe the passage of the new guidelines would motivate the destruction of more human life and the use of taxpayer money to further this effort maybe . AT the very least, is is not moral and ethical, there fore these guidelines should not be implemented. Human life is not supposed to be disposable. Please reconsider the repurcussions of this decision.

6094

05/02/2009 at 08:48:30 AM

Organization

I bvelieve this is immoral and will promote abortion, which is (to say the least) highly controversial. There are also no proven health benefits or positive research benefits.